New Xavi deal nearly done and dusted

Speaking at a press conference, Xavi gave an update on his contract renewal: "I'm really happy. It's almost done, now they just have to draw up the contract. I'm happy because the two sides didn't take long to reach an agreement. It will be sorted soon and could be announced next week".

What the midfielder is less sure about is whether he will stay at Barça beyond the duration of the new deal. "I don't know if I'll still be around after that. It depends whether I still have something to offer the club at the age of 36… I couldn't be happier, this is my boyhood club and I've really enjoyed the last few years".

Xavi also spoke about David Villa's status at the club and stressed the Asturian striker's importance within the dressing room: "Things are going well for him. He's looking great; he's in great physical and mental shape. We all know how important 'El Guaje' is for us".

Iniesta's bid to win the Ballon d'Or was another issue up for discussion. "He deserves it too, for everything he's done: he can make the difference and is vital for us, with his ability to create danger and keep possession. He's the complete modern footballer".

Finally, the playmaker rounded off the press conference by discussing the new education law being promoted by the Spanish Education Minister, José Ignacio Wert: "I don't think it's right for us to be told not to speak Catalan in Catalonia. That is our right and I'd like there to be more respect for our culture, language and way of life. I don't agree with what the minister said the other day. Politicians are there to resolve issues, but I disagree with him".